The Manitoba government has announced that it will host the province’s first-ever fishers summit, a gathering that aims to bring together north- and south-basin fishers to discuss the long-term viability and success of the province’s freshwater fishery. • Key Objectives
•
- To unite north- and south-basin fishers
- To address the challenges facing the industry
- To discuss the future of the freshwater fishery
Minister Ian Bushie stated that it has been many years since commercial fishers have had a seat at the table when it comes to deciding how best to advance the future of the freshwater fish sector in Manitoba. The summit is seen as an opportunity for the government to bring commercial fishers into the decision-making process and have a say in the future of their industry. The summit will take place on Friday, May 9 in Selkirk, a continuation of a series of forums held last April for people from communities around Lake Winnipeg. Those interested in attending the summit can email fish@gov.mb.ca to receive further information and formal invitations. “For over 100 years, Manitobans have been harvesting fish for commerce, growing into a valued industry that contributes approximately $100 million annually to Manitoba’s economy,” said Bushie. This has led to the development of a thriving industry that provides rural jobs and vibrant communities. Currently, commercial fishing in Manitoba is managed through the use of licences, quotas, gear restrictions and seasons. These management tools allow fish populations and the industry to remain viable over the long-term, noted the minister. The summit aims to build on the success of these management tools and to find new ways to sustain the industry for the long-term. By bringing together north- and south-basin fishers, the government hopes to gain a better understanding of the challenges facing the industry and to develop solutions that will ensure the continued viability of the freshwater fishery. The key objectives of the summit are to unite north- and south-basin fishers, to address the challenges facing the industry, and to discuss the future of the freshwater fishery.
- Unite north- and south-basin fishers to share their experiences and perspectives
- Discuss the current management tools and their effectiveness
- Explore new ways to sustain the industry for the long-term
The summit will be an important opportunity for commercial fishers to have a say in the future of their industry and to contribute to the development of a sustainable future for the freshwater fishery.
“We want to make sure this industry grows and prospers, creating rural jobs and vibrant communities for the next 100 years,” said Minister Bushie.